Safety Signs and Road Signs Information

5 Interesting Facts About The Las Vegas Sign

Here at SafetySign.com, we are genuine fans of Custom Signs – whether they are constructed by renowned artists or someone working out of their garage. The iconic Las Vegas sign is no exception. Each year this popular landmark greets millions of tourists and it’s likeness can be seen across the globe. However, you might not know too much about the sign other than the bright lights. So, without further ado, here are five interesting facts about the Las Vegas sign you may not have known.

Made in the Style of Googie Architecture

Betty Willis, who was one of the first female commercial artists to work on neon signs, designed the Las Vegas sign in the style of Googie Architecture. This style uses large, bright elements and futuristic motifs aimed at capturing the attention of drivers. However, the Las Vegas sign isn’t the only notable fixture to make use of this space-aged style: it’s influences can be seen all throughout Disney World as well as McDonald’s Golden Arches.

It Has a Back Side

This may seem obvious, but so many photographs document the front side of the sign that the backside is overshadowed. Most people probably recognize the glamorous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada” text that sprawls across the front display, but few may realize the backside reads “Drive Carefully, Come Back Soon.”

The Sign Isn’t Actually Located In Vegas

Ironically, the Las Vegas sign isn’t actually within the city’s limits. The sign’s official address, 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South, places it in the neighboring town of Paradise. Believe it or not, much of the famed Vegas strip is actually in Paradise.

The Designer Didn’t Make Any Money

Willis, the designer of the landmark, never trademarked her work and that’s the reason why so many companies replicate the sign on t-shirts, mugs, and posters. In fact, Willis actually gifted the Las Vegas Sign to Clark County. The total cost to make the sign in 1959 was $4,000. For comparison, the Stardust Hotel and Casino constructed their own sign in 1967 for $500,000.

Considering how many people buy souvenirs with the Las Vegas sign’s likeness on it, it’s interesting to ponder if Willis would have still handed over the sign for free.

It’s Runs off of Solar Power

In 2014, Clark County installed three “solar trees” which provides enough solar-powered electricity to keep the sign lit throughout the night – making it one of the first steps in Las Vegas becoming more environmentally friendly.